Athlete of the Month Anne Graham

We would like to congratulate Anne Graham as our newest athlete of the month. Anne’s positive attitude, love for others and pure hard work has not gone unnoticed. She is an integral part of our community here at CFIS. In January Anne competed in her first powerlifting competition. All of her hard work certainly paid off, as she won first place in her weight class and set the provincial records in the squat, bench, and deadlift. We wish Anne the best of luck and will be cheering her on, as she works on hitting that national qualifying total at the N.S Powerlifting Provincials.

1. Age/Occupation

I am 48 years old and the National Service Manager for Kelly Services Canada.

2. What was your Sports and Fitness background prior to CF?

Let’s say that I have always been active, not always consistently active – running, yoga, a bit of tennis, back country camping.

3. What made you decide to try and start CF?

Tomelise and Heather are 100% the reason I tried CF. They bugged and bugged me to go to a community class. I can still hear them both – you will love it! I struggled through that class which was enough for me to know I needed to keep coming back.

4. How has CF impacted your daily life?

It sure has. My kids laugh at me because they find me doing air squats and super squats all the time. All joking aside, I feel stronger and more fit than I have in 25 years. I have a lot more confidence to attempt things I never thought I could do.

5. What d you find to be the most challenging movement or favourite?

The most challenging movement for me is still the snatch. I like it and it’s improving but I think too much when I go through the motions. My favourite things to do are box jumps and handstands. I just love them. I think it’s because box jumps were the first obstacle I learned to overcome at CF. Handstands I was sure I would never be able to do. I can though!

6. What motivated you to compete in your first powerlifting meet?

I am not really sure. Lisa suggested it and it seemed like a good thing to do. I like to lift stuff – love deadlifts, love back squats. It has given me a target/goal and motivated me to get to class. I love the challenge and excitement with something I have never tried before. I don’t have to do any burpees or double unders .

7. Have you had to change your training in preparation for the meet?

I really haven’t changed much in my training to get ready for the meet. I am not trying to beat anyone but myself in this thing. I have made sure I am in class at least 3 times a week, sometimes four. I have been working on my technique for squats and deadlifts. I am working at home on my mobility as well.

8. What is your favourite post wod snack?

So I am super lucky as usually I get home from CF and dinner is ready. On the rare occasion when it isn’t ready – I will have a protein shake or bar and then make supper.

9. Do you have any advice for those who are intimidated by CF?

I was totally intimidated by the thought of CF and my first few classes, I was really not sure what I was getting myself into. My advice to anyone thinking about it – you have to try it. It is a really supportive environment. Set reasonable goals for yourself. Do it at your own speed, don’t worry about what everyone else is doing around you. You have to give it time, especially if you were like me and out of shape. All of a sudden you will be able to do things you couldn’t do before. It is the most rewarding feeling.